Izaija 65:17

Humans like comeback stories. We are eager to embrace the underdog. There's something in the human spirit that naturally draws us toward new things and cheers on underdogs. Join us in this Abide plan as we meditate on God's call to push into New Beginnings.

J.R.R. Tolkien was convinced that he would never finish "The Lord of The Rings". But through fellowship with other Christians, such as C.S. Lewis, Tolkien persevered. During this time, Tolkien wrote a brilliant parable called, "Leaf by Niggle". In this four-day plan, I’ll highlight biblical truths from that short story which give us great hope for our work today.

During Advent, we remember that Jesus is God’s Star, heralding God’s love and forgiving power to us. Each devotional in this series is for one of the Sundays leading up to Christmas. The fifth, and final devotional, is for Christmas Day. Use these short reflections around a meal table, or on your own. More than anything, lift your eyes to God’s Star –Jesus – as your Hope this season.

Our big God doesn’t make small people—so don’t get in the way of the greatness God has for you! This week’s devotional from Pastor Stephen Chandler shows us how to orient your passion and gifts toward the deeper purposes of God, where true greatness awaits.